The folks at UK retailer Cloudsto have been offering tiny desktop computers loaded with Ubuntu Linux for a little while. But most have basically been Ubuntu versions of existing Android boxes with ARM-based processors.
Now Cloudsto is introducing a line of mini PCs with x86 processors, starting with the Cloudsto X86 Nano Mini PC. It’s available with either Windows 8.1 or Ubuntu 14.04.
The Cloudsto X86 Nano is a pocket-sized computer with an Intel Atom Bay Trail processor, Ubuntu 14.04 Linux, and at least one nifty feature: a built-in 3000 mAh battery which lets you use the system when it’s unplugged. You can also use it as a portable power pack to recharge your smartphone battery on the go.
If the computer looks familiar, that’s because it seems to be based on the same design as the GULEEK i8 and Egreat i5. Both of those computers ship with Windows 8.1.
The Cloudsto model features an Intel Atom Z3735F Bay Trail processor, 2GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, 802.11b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, a microSD card slot, two full-sized USB host ports, a micro USB host port (which is also the charging port), a 3.5mm audio jack, and a micro HDMI port.
It measures 5.8″ x 3.1″ x 0.35″ and weighs 7.4 ounces.
Cloudsto charges £130 for both the Windows and Ubuntu Linux models. That’s just under $200 US, which makes this option a little more expensive than some other devices. But Cloudsto is a a UK-based company that typically charges relatively high prices due to taxes and currency exchange rates.
The company plans to offer additional Windows/Ubuntu computers with X86 chips in the future including an X86 PC stick.
Interesting that manufacturers seem to be getting creative with form-factor – in this case computer and battery. I know it’s not modular, but connect up a screen for a tablet. Add bluetooth keyboard and mouse for a desktop. Hmmm Could do with adding a sim card slot… or two.
Yes! Ubuntu Vivid is fast and easy to use.
So the micro USB port works as OTG as well?
The Megopad T02 is out and wholesaling for $50-$65 with minimum order quantities of just 100. Should reach retail for around $75, asking hundreds of dollars for Z3735 devices, is getting to be pretty shameless.
https://cew.en.alibaba.com/product/60216026070-800254009/MEEGOPAD_T02_INTEL_Z3735F_Quad_Core_Windows8_win8ANDROID_DUAL_BOOT_MINI_PC_DONGLE_TV_STICK_COMPUTE_STICK.html
Sounds like they are going to charge you the windows tax no matter what. We don’t like that.
Just get this, it is cheaper and you won’t feed some slimeballs in the UK who did zero work other than slapping a sticker on it and swapping it for a cheaper battery.
https://www.amazon.com/Vensmile-TM-iPC002-Quad-core-Bluetooth/dp/B00REGG6QU
That looks like it’d make a great little HTPC.
Prices in the UK include tax (20%) and smaller companies can’t go as low as Amazon. Plus you get a 12 month warranty from an established company with the Cloudsto device. I can’t even find a website for Vensmile!
Also, why do you suppose the 3000 mAh battery (in the Cloudsto) is cheaper than the 2600 mAh battery (in the Vensmile)
Vensmile comes with a 7000mAh battery, the specific item in question comes direct from China with a 3000mAh battery or 7000mAh battery in 32GB storage or 64GB storage. It is an identical device sold by multiple resellers under different badges. Depending on the seller you buy it from it will be configured differently.
According to the Amazon page you linked to it comes with a 2600 mAh battery
Mine came with a 7000mHa battery from that seller. Maybe they have ran out of the 7k stock.